Brief Summary
In this episode, CJDannyB and the crew discuss the second Pokémon movie, "Pokémon 2000," also known as "The Power of One." They share their initial thoughts, dissect the plot, and debate its merits compared to the first movie. The group also touches on various aspects, including the music, characters, and animation, while sprinkling in humorous anecdotes and personal experiences.
- The group discusses the music, plot, and characters of "Pokemon 2000".
- They compare it to the first movie and share personal anecdotes.
- They also discuss the upcoming Twitter poll for favorite Pokemon from the movie.
Intro and Initial Thoughts
The episode starts with CJDannyB introducing the crew: Dante, Chris, and Princeton, to discuss "Pokémon 2000." Chris expresses his fondness for the movie, while John admits it's among his least favorites, though still watchable. The group plans to rank "Pokémon 2000" against "Mewtwo Strikes Back" and announce the results of the first poll in the next episode. Dante appreciates the movie's music, finding it superior to the first film due to its well-set tone. Chris enjoys Ash's adventure across the islands and the excitement it brought him as a child, particularly Lugia's introduction.
Plot Synopsis and Lugia's Typing
The discussion transitions to the movie's plot, beginning with Slowking's monologue that sets the stage for the story. The prophecy warns of the titans' clash and the water's great guardian arising to quell the fighting. Dante expresses his frustration over Lugia's whale noises, despite not being a water type. The group discusses Lugia's psychic/flying typing, which is never explicitly stated in the movie, leading to confusion. They also discuss the move Aeroblast and how it could be a combination of water and wind.
Lawrence III and the Legendary Birds
The group introduces Lawrence III, the movie's villain, a collector who seeks to capture the three legendary birds to lure out Lugia. They discuss his elaborate flying fortress and his motivations, questioning the logistics of his operation and his funding. Lawrence captures Moltres, causing the fire island to freeze, and sets his sights on the other legendary birds.
Ash, Misty, and Tracey's Journey
The scene shifts to Ash, Misty, and Tracey (instead of Brock) sailing through the Orange Islands. The group discusses the controversial replacement of Brock with Tracey, citing concerns about Brock's dark skin being offensive to American audiences. They express their preference for Brock and critique Tracey's character. A storm separates the group, leading them to Shamouti Island, where they encounter the island's culture and traditions.
Shamouti Island and the Chosen One
Ash and his friends arrive on Shamouti Island and are greeted by the islanders, who are preparing for their annual ceremony involving the three titans. They meet Melody, who develops a fondness for Ash, causing Misty to become jealous. The group discusses the cultural influences on the island, noting the mix of Aztec, Chinese, and Hawaiian elements. During a dinner scene, Melody plays Lugia's song on an ocarina, and Ash is chosen to participate in a quest to collect three orbs from different islands.
The Quest Begins and Team Rocket's Antics
Ash, accompanied by Marin, sets off to retrieve the orbs, while Misty and Tracey follow in a separate boat. Team Rocket provides comic relief with their usual antics. Professor Oak and Ash's mom discuss the unusual weather patterns and the Pokémon's strange behavior. Pikachu senses the climate changes caused by the disturbances to the legendary birds.
Fire Island and Zapdos's Capture
Ash arrives on Fire Island to retrieve the first orb, while Misty and Tracey follow in their flying boat. Team Rocket interrupts, but the group manages to escape with the orb. Zapdos appears, and Ash uses his Pokedex, which is odd since he should already know what Zapdos is. Lawrence captures Zapdos, adding it to his collection alongside Moltres.
Lawrence's Airship and the Release of Moltres
The group finds themselves captured on Lawrence's airship, where they encounter the captured Moltres and Zapdos. Lawrence leaves to capture Articuno, and the group frees the captured Pokémon. Team Rocket helps release Moltres, who destroys Zapdos's cage. Zapdos, instead of being grateful, attacks Moltres, leading to a battle between the legendary birds.
The Battle Intensifies and Lugia's Arrival
The legendary birds clash, causing chaos and destruction. Lugia arrives to intervene, attempting to quell the fighting. Lugia is overpowered by the three birds and plummets into the water. Melody plays the ocarina, reviving Lugia, who then instructs Ash to retrieve the final orb.
Ice Island and the Final Orb
Ash makes his way to Ice Island, using a piece of metal as a sled. Team Rocket, in a lifeboat, helps Ash reach the island. As Ash retrieves the final orb, Articuno is defeated. Lugia instructs Ash to board its back, emphasizing the power of one.
The Power of One and the Restoration of Harmony
Lugia carries Ash to the shrine, where he places the orbs, restoring balance to the islands. The ruins shine, and the environment is revitalized. Lugia flies Ash around the island, celebrating their victory. Ash's mom arrives, relieved that he is safe. Lawrence is left stranded with only his Mew card.
Aftermath and Final Thoughts
Team Rocket laments that no one recognizes their contribution. The group discusses the significance of Melody's character and her role in the story. They also discuss the flaws in the movie's plot, including the vague prophecy and the lack of a meaningful lesson. They debate whether "Pokémon 2000" is better than the first movie.
Alternative Plots and Movie Flaws
The group suggests alternative plots for Pokémon movies, such as a tournament arc featuring iconic trainers. They critique the repetitive nature of Pokémon movie plots, which often revolve around a legendary Pokémon and a chosen one. They also discuss the lack of a consistent world-building in the early Pokémon movies.
Pokemon Poll and Outro
The episode concludes with each member picking a Pokémon from the movie for a Twitter poll: Dante chooses Zapdos, Chris picks Slowking, John selects Meowth, and CJDannyB goes with Ekans. They encourage viewers to vote in the poll and tune in next week for a discussion of "Pokémon 3: The Movie."
